Due to the combination with a material sweep, the studies can now solve the physical model for all chosen materials and it is possible to analyze all of the results together. Now that we transformed the original model into a multimaterial model, we can adjust the studies. Setting the material switch for a multimaterial analysis. The switch is assigned to the solid domains of the tuning fork. We can add available materials from the built-in Material Library, including: Further, this switch is needed to work with the material sweep in the Study node, as described later in this blog post. This option allows us to set and test various materials for the model. Let’s return to the initial question: How does the tuning fork’s arm length depend on the material for a tune of 440 Hz?įirst, we extend the model with a material switch. Tuning Fork model showing the original settings to search for a tune of 440 Hz via two different strategies. In contrast, the second study applies a mathematical optimization algorithm that uses L as the control variable and the deviation from the target frequency as the optimization objective for fast, precise, and efficient optimization. The first study uses a parametric sweep of the tuning fork’s arm length, set as a parameter L, to find the optimal design for 440 Hz. Both studies perform an eigenfrequency analysis to search for the eigenfrequency around 440 Hz. This model features a parametric geometry, material properties of steel, the Solid Mechanics interface, and two studies. For this blog post, we’ll start with the simple Tuning Fork model (and accompanying example app).
You can access the Application Library within the COMSOL® software GUI in the File menu and search the keyword “tuning fork”.
The Application Library contains several models featuring a tuning fork geometry, as well as a tuning fork simulation app. Performing an Optimization Study for Multiple Materials
This made me think: What if we change the geometry and material of a tuning fork to reach the desired frequency?Ī tuning fork. An article in JOM discusses how the frequency of a tuning fork changes with different materials and a fixed geometry ( Ref.
Tuning forks are made out many different materials, but most of them are calibrated to a standard pitch of 440 Hz for an A note.
In this blog post, learn how to combine sweep studies with the built-in optimization functionality.Īchieving the Ideal Frequency of a Tuning Fork However, precise and innovative simulation results also call for mathematical optimization. You can perform several different types of sweeps in the COMSOL Multiphysics® software, including function, material, and parametric sweeps. Sweeps are very useful for characterizing a system and learning more about how different input values impact the results.